Boudreau's league of champions: Team BattistellaTeam Battistella Player News and Recent Activity in Boudreau's league of championshttp://games.espn.com/flb/leagueoffice?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&leagueId=8215430en-usWed, 13 Dec 2017 18:39:17 PSThttp://a.espncdn.com/favicon.ico1616Boudreau's league of champions: Team Battistellahttp://games.espn.com/flb/leagueoffice?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&leagueId=82154Ian Kinsler of the Detroit Tigers: Kinsler was traded to the Angels on Wednesday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. Spin: The deal is finally official after briefly being held up due to undisclosed reasons. Kinsler, who batted just .236/.313/.412 in 139 games last season, should immediately takeover as the team's starting second baseman next season. Even in what can be considered a down year for the veteran, he swatted 22 homers and will inevitably be an upgrade at the keystone for an Angels team that saw their second basemen turn in a combined .207/.274/.318 line last season. He'll likely slide into the top portion of the team's batting order and should benefit from being surrounded by the likes of Mike Trout, Albert Pujols and Justin Upton. The Tigers will receive Wilkel Hernandez and Troy Montgomery in return, according to Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 18:11:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=1132http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=1132#82154.2.2017.184.476130Ian Kinsler of the Detroit Tigers: Contrary to a previous report, a deal to send Kinsler to the Angels has not yet been completed, Buster Olney of ESPN reports. Spin: It's unclear what's holding the deal up at this point, but Jon Heyman of FanRagSports.com reports there's still a good amount of optimism that Kinsler will eventually be dealt to the Angels.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 17:51:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=1132http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=1132#82154.2.2017.184.476129Zeke Spruill of the Boston Red Sox: Spruill signed a minor-league contract with the Rangers on Wednesday, T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com reports. Spin: Spruill is looking to revive his major-league career after spending the past two seasons pitching in Korea and Taiwan, respectively. He last pitched in the majors in 2014, when he compiled a 3.57 ERA across 22.2 innings with the Diamondbacks. He worked primarily as a starter abroad -- posting a 2.56 ERA and 1.14 WHIP across 26 starts (172.1 innings) with the Lamigo Monkeys last season -- though it's unclear what plans the Rangers have for him.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 16:56:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=4114http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=4114#82154.2.2017.184.476128Ian Kinsler of the Detroit Tigers: Kinsler was traded to the Angels on Wednesday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. Spin: The Tigers' return hasn't been announced yet, but it appears Kinsler will be heading to the west coast as the Angels continue to build up their roster. The veteran second baseman is coming off a disappointing year by his standards. While he managed to swat 22 homers, he turned in an unimpressive .236 batting average to go along with his .725 OPS, both of which were the worst marks of his career. Kinsler will look to turn things around in what will be the final year of his contract, and he should benefit from playing with the big bats of Mike Trout, Albert Pujols and Justin Upton. Expect him to immediately step in as the team's everyday starter at the keystone next season.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 16:21:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=1132http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=1132#82154.2.2017.184.476127Joe Smith: Smith signed a two-year contract with the Astros on Wednesday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. Spin: Smith started last season with the Blue Jays before being dealt to the Indians at the trade deadline. He put together another solid year, compiling a combined 3.33 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 71:10 K:BB across 54 innings of relief between both teams. The veteran reliever, who owns a 2.97 ERA across 11 seasons, should immediately step into a high-leverage relief role with his new club.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 15:21:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=1664http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=1664#82154.2.2017.184.476126Magneuris Sierra of the St. Louis Cardinals: Sierra was traded to the Marlins on Wednesday along with Sandy Alcantara and two undisclosed prospects for Marcell Ozuna, Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald reports. Spin: Sierra is a better real-life prospect than fantasy asset, as he has the potential to offer elite center-field defense, but is raw at the plate. As a member of the Cardinals' 40-man roster, he was shuttled between the majors and minors last season, at the expense of his offensive development. He is a 70-grade runner, however, so he could eventually be a threat to steal 30-plus bases if he is able to secure an everyday role. Look for him to start the year at Double-A, as the Marlins will be able to be more patient with him as his offensive game develops.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 14:41:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=6311http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=6311#82154.2.2017.184.476125Juan Nicasio: Nicasio signed a two-year deal with the Mariners on Wednesday, Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com reports. Spin: Nicasio split time between three different organizations last year -- St. Louis, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia -- and accumulated a 2.61 ERA and 1.08 WHIP during 76 relief appearances. During those outings, he posted a 72:20 K:BB in 72.1 innings while notching six saves and 21 holds, and will look to find stability within the Mariners' bullpen in 2018. The right-hander provides flexibility, as he's shown that he can pitch in a high-leverage late-inning role, or be deployed as an inning-eating middle reliever.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 14:26:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2887http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2887#82154.2.2017.184.476124Edinson Volquez of the Miami Marlins: Volquez (elbow) was released by Miami on Wednesday, Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald reports. Spin: Volquez is busy recovering from a UCL tear that warranted Tommy John surgery in early August, but was released in order to create a spot on the team's 40-man roster. As Spencer notes, the Marlins could choose to re-sign the right-hander to a minor-league deal while he sits out most, if not all, of the 2018 season rehabbing from the injury. During 17 starts with the team this past year, he posted a 4.19 ERA and 1.42 WHIP in 92.1 innings. Miami still owes Volquez $13 million from the contract he signed last November,]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 13:36:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=1277http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=1277#82154.2.2017.184.476123Shawn Armstrong of the Cleveland Indians: Armstrong was traded to the Mariners in exchange for $500,000 of international bonus pool money. Spin: Armstrong appeared in 21 relief outings for the Indians in 2017, accruing a 4.38 ERA and 1.34 WHIP while sporting a 20:10 K:BB in 24.2 innings. The 27-year-old right-hander spent about half his time in Triple-A this past year, but might be able to find a home in Seattle's bullpen and earn a career high in innings and appearances. With Triple-A Columbus, Armstrong posted a 2.42 ERA in 26 innings.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 12:26:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=6003http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=6003#82154.2.2017.184.476122Sandy Alcantara of the St. Louis Cardinals: Alcantara was traded to the Marlins on Wednesday as part of the return package in the trade that sent Marcell Ozuna to the Cardinals, Jon Heyman of FanRagSports.com reports. Spin: The rest of the prospects headed to Miami have not yet been revealed, but the flame-throwing right-hander might be the headliner. He can touch triple digits with his fastball, but shaky command and inconsistent secondary offerings have many evaluators pegging him for a high-leverage relief role. He is still just 22, so there is time for him to improve in both areas. The Marlins will continue to develop him as a starter, as they won't be contending anytime soon. The impact on his fantasy value is complicated -- he was likely ticketed for a relief role sooner than later with the Cardinals, which could have yielded saves and strikeouts, but now he will have a chance to max out as a high-strikeout/high-WHIP starter.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 11:16:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=7055http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=7055#82154.2.2017.184.476121Marcell Ozuna of the Miami Marlins: Ozuna was traded to the Cardinals on Wednesday, Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com reports. Spin: After failing to secure Giancarlo Stanton, the Cardinals will snag a different outfielder from Miami, as Ozuna is heading to St. Louis following five seasons in the big-leagues with the Marlins. During his breakout 2017 campaign, Ozuna slashed .312/.376/.548 with 37 home runs and 124 RBI, with all stats checking in as career highs. At this point in time, the return for Ozuna hasn't been announced, but all players involved will need to pass their physicals in order for the deal to go through. Looking ahead, Ozuna is the impact bat that the Cardinals were searching for at the winter meetings, and he will be a mainstay at the number three or four spot in the order for St. Louis during this upcoming season. As for defensive positioning, Ozuna will probably remain in left field while Tommy Pham transitions to right.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 10:21:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=4149http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=4149#82154.2.2017.184.476120Francisco Pena of the Baltimore Orioles: Pena agreed to a minor-league deal with St. Louis on Wednesday, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. Spin: Pena spent the past two seasons in the Orioles' system, and wound up playing in 19 big-league games during that span. During 51 contests with Triple-A Norfolk in 2017, the catcher slashed .278/.309/.450 with six home runs and 18 RBI. Although he may not make an impact at the major-league level, Pena will serve as organizational depth for the Redbirds moving forward.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 09:21:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2919http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2919#82154.2.2017.184.476119Anthony Swarzak: Swarzak signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Mets on Wednesday, Marc Carig of Newsday reports. Spin: After delivering the best season of his career between the White Sox and Brewers, Swarzak will head back to The Big Apple after playing in 2016 with the Yankees. The left-hander was a trade-deadline acquisition for Milwaukee this past year, and totaled an ERA of 2.33 and 91:22 K:BB over 77.1 relief innings between both clubs. He will join a Mets' bullpen that was in desperate need of an arm, or two, and should be utilized in high-leverage situations as a setup man, during this upcoming season.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 08:46:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2428http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2428#82154.2.2017.184.476118Jake McGee: McGee will remain with the Rockies after signing a three-year deal Wednesday, Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports. Spin: Pending a physical, McGee will be back in the Colorado bullpen for the third straight year, and could potentially be the club's closer for the 2018 season. That obviously depends on whether the Rockies are able to sign other relievers before the start of next season, but McGee is a solid candidate to take over that role following a good season in 2017. During this past year, he posted a 3.61 ERA and 1.10 WHIP over 57.1 innings, while accumulating three saves and 20 holds. His 58:16 K:BB was more in line with his remarkable final two seasons in Tampa Bay than his rough debut with the Rockies in 2016, and the left-hander should be able to put together another quality year in whichever role he winds up being deployed in.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 07:36:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=1876http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=1876#82154.2.2017.184.476117Michael Pineda: Pineda (elbow) signed a two-year deal with the Twins on Wednesday. Spin: The 28-year-old righty underwent Tommy John surgery on July 18, and figures to miss most, if not all of the 2018 season. This gives him some short-term security and a chance to hit the market again after hopefully reestablishing his value in 2019, while it give the Twins an affordable, high-upside starter for 2019. Pineda has generated worse run-prevention metrics than the fielding-independent numbers suggest, as his career 3.60 FIP is quite a bit lower than his career 4.05 ERA. While he hasn't posted an ERA under 4.30 since 2014, he typically strikes out around a batter per inning, and in 2016 he notched 207 strikeouts in 175.2 innings, so there is plenty of long-term upside for dynasty-league owners.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 06:51:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=3381http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=3381#82154.2.2017.184.476116Edgar Olmos of the Baltimore Orioles: Olmos has agreed to pitch with Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan for the 2018 season, the team's official site reports. Spin: He spent 2017 notching a 2.68 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 77 strikeouts in 87.1 innings with the Red Sox's Triple-A affiliate, but hasn't pitched in the big leagues since 2015.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 06:46:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=4305http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=4305#82154.2.2017.184.476115Mike Bolsinger of the Toronto Blue Jays: Bolsinger has agreed to pitch with Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan for the 2018 season, the team's official Twitter account reports. Spin: He was outrighted off the Blue Jays' 40-man roster in August, and opted for a steady paycheck in Japan over having to work his way back to the big leagues. The 29-year-old righty has a career 4.92 ERA, 1.51 WHIP and 210 strikeouts in 230.2 MLB innings.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 06:41:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=5233http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=5233#82154.2.2017.184.476114Tommy Hunter: Hunter has agreed to a two-year deal with the Phillies worth approximately $18 million, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. Spin: Tuesday was an eventful night, as it was first reported that the Phillies were landing Addison Reed, which turned out to be incorrect. They instead came to terms with Hunter, who will serve as one of their top setup men in 2018. The 31-year-old righty logged a 2.61 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 64 strikeouts in 58.2 innings for the Rays last season. He has 17 career saves, but most of those came in 2014 with the Orioles. Hector Neris would open the year as the Phillies' closer if they don't make more moves, but talks with Reed are reportedly ongoing.]]>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 06:36:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2011http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2011#82154.2.2017.184.476113Erik Kratz: Kratz re-signed with the Yankees on Tuesday, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. Spin: Kratz opted for free agency after declining an outright assignment from the Yankees at the start of November, but will now rejoin the team for the 2018 campaign. He only took part in four games at the big league level this past season with New York, instead spending the majority of the year in Triple-A. The veteran catcher will likely provide depth in the minors once again after re-upping to a new deal, which should restrict his fantasy impact.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 22:01:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2495http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2495#82154.2.2017.184.476112Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels: Ohtani has a first-degree sprain of his right ulnar collateral ligament and underwent a platelet-rich plasma shot in October to treat elbow pain, Yahoo Sports reports. Ohtani is also returning from ankle surgery in October. Spin: A physical obtained by Yahoo Sports also notes that Ohtani will be able to start throwing about a month after receiving the PRP injection. While it sounds like this injury won't keep him from throwing in spring training, it does increase some risk that he could have a setback and further tear his UCL. And while many pitchers play through ligament tears, the PRP may indicate this injury could be more than minor.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 20:11:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=7991http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=7991#82154.2.2017.184.476111Drew Smyly: Smyly (elbow) agreed to a two-year contract with the Cubs on Tuesday, Buster Olney of ESPN reports. Spin: Smyly is not expected to debut with the Cubs until the latter portion of the 2018 season, as he just underwent Tommy John reconstructive elbow surgery this past June. The move is likely more 2019 focused, as Smyly could be seen as a nice buy-low option in the long run. He has a career 3.74 ERA and 1.19 WHIP across 156 appearances.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 18:26:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=4290http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=4290#82154.2.2017.184.476110Bryan Shaw: Shaw has agreed to sign with the Rockies, Jon Heyman of FanRagSports.com reports. Spin: In seven seasons, Shaw has posted a 3.13 ERA, 2.64 K:BB and 8.0 K/9 across 446.1 innings. The 30-year-old has also impressed with his durability, as he has never seen the disabled list in his career. He worked mainly in a setup/middle relief role a year ago, and it would seem likely he will do the same in his new surroundings, unless the Rockies are not able to land another reliever.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 17:21:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2977http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2977#82154.2.2017.184.476109Colin Moran of the Houston Astros: Manager A.J. Hinch said the Astros may deploy Moran in left field during spring training, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports. Spin: With Alex Bregman and Yuli Gurriel well established at the corner infield positions, the Astros are looking at other possible options to get Moran playing time at the major-league level. The 25-year-old helped improve his stock last season by hitting .308/.373/.543 with 18 homers and 63 RBI in 79 games with Triple-A Fresno. His performance earned him a promotion, but he appeared in just two games before fouling a ball off his face and suffering a concussion and facial fracture that ultimately required surgery. Moran returned at the end of September and finished his brief major-league stint with a .364 batting average (4-for-11) and one homer in seven games. He played four games in the outfield with Fresno last season, and will look to acclimate himself to the position in spring training with hopes of breaking camp as a reserve.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 16:21:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=5703http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=5703#82154.2.2017.184.476108Chris Bassitt of the Oakland Athletics: The A's haven't decided if Bassitt will work as a starter or reliever in 2018, Jane Lee of MLB.com reports. Spin: Bassitt worked his way back last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in May of 2016. While he initially was looking to return as a starter, a setback in his recovery forced him to finish the season in a relief role. It's possible the A's keep him in the bullpen to help preserve his arm, though that will depend on how Bassitt feels when he reports to camp.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 16:11:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=5653http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=5653#82154.2.2017.184.476107Christian Arroyo of the San Francisco Giants: Arroyo (hand) is expected to be fully ready for spring training, Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. Spin: Arroyo, who suffered a broken left hand in July, underwent surgery to insert a pin into the same hand after suffering a setback during a Dominican Winter League game. Assuming he avoids any further setbacks, the 22-year-old should compete for an Opening Day roster spot in spring training. He made his major-league debut in 2017, hitting just .192/.244/.304 in 34 games.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 16:01:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=5688http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=5688#82154.2.2017.184.476106Bubba Starling of the Kansas City Royals: General manager Dayton Moore said Starling (oblique) will start the 2018 season with Triple-A Omaha, Rustin Dodd of The Kansas City Star reports. Spin: Starling was on the cusp of making his MLB debut in 2017 before an oblique injury cut his season short. He finished the year with a .248/.303/.381 line in 80 games for Omaha. While he's expected to start in the minors, Moore noted the team wouldn't hesitate to promote him if he gets off to a solid start.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:51:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=4628http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=4628#82154.2.2017.184.476105Tyler Glasnow of the Pittsburgh Pirates: General manager Neal Huntington said the Pirates are open to using Glasnow out of the bullpen to start the season, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. Spin: While Huntington noted the team views Glasnow as a starter long term, he didn't rule out the possibility of using him in a relief role. Despite being one of the more promising young arms in the game, Glasnow has yet to put it together at the major-league level, posting a 6.75 ERA, 1.88 WHIP and 6.0 BB/9 over the past two seasons (85.1 innings). The 24-year-old owns a much more respectable 3.75 ERA in 12 innings of relief, so the Pirates may be hoping he can find form in the bullpen before moving back to the rotation.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:46:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=5693http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=5693#82154.2.2017.184.476104Jose Iglesias of the Detroit Tigers: General manager Al Avila said he expects Iglesias to be the Tigers' starting shortstop in 2018, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. Spin: The Tigers were apparently shopping Iglesias around, though it appears the team didn't receive any noteworthy offers. That may change, but for now, Iglesias is poised to return as the team's starter in 2018. He's a glove-first shortstop who hit just .255/.288/.369 with six homers and seven stolen bases last season, so he can probably be left alone outside of deeper leagues.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:31:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2711http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2711#82154.2.2017.184.476103Luis Sardinas of the Baltimore Orioles: Manager Buck Showalter said Sardinas is a candidate to serve a utility role next season, Rich Dubroff of PressBoxonline.com reports. Spin: The Orioles are in need of a utility man with Ryan Flaherty heading to free agency, and Sardinas could fill that role in 2018. He signed a minor-league contract with the team in October after finishing last season with Triple-A Norfolk. Throughout his career, the 24-year-old has appeared in multiple games at first base, second base, third base and shortstop. Sardinas hit just .163/.226/.163 in a 29-game stint with the Padres last season before being designated for assignment.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:26:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=4400http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=4400#82154.2.2017.184.476102Seth Frankoff of the Seattle Mariners: Frankoff signed a contract for 2018 to play for the Doosan Bears in South Korea, the Korea Herald reports. Spin: Frankoff was released by the Cubs at the end of August, after making just one appearance for the big club. He threw 2.0 innings, allowing two runs on four hits while striking out two batters. The Mariners picked him up off waivers shortly after, but released him so he could play in South Korea.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:16:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=5868http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=5868#82154.2.2017.184.476101Kyle Lewis of the Seattle Mariners: General manager Jerry Dipoto said he expects Lewis (knee) to be fully ready for spring training, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. Spin: Lewis is continuing to rehab the knee issue that forced him out of the Arizona Fall League at the end of October. Barring any setbacks, he should be fully healthy heading into next season. The highly touted 22-year-old will look to bounce back in 2018 after appearing in just 38 games and hitting .255/.323/.403 with High-A Modesto last season.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:11:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=7451http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=7451#82154.2.2017.184.476100Brandon Guyer of the Cleveland Indians: Guyer (wrist) may not be ready for Opening Day, though he's expected to be fine for the majority of the season, Zack Meisel of The Athletic Cleveland reports. Spin: Guyer hurt his right wrist in mid-September and eventually underwent surgery in October. While the issue may keep him sidelined to start the 2018 campaign, it doesn't sound like he'll miss too much action. He hit .236/.326/.327 in 70 games last season.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:06:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=3122http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=3122#82154.2.2017.184.476099Chris Owings of the Arizona Diamondbacks: Owings (finger) will be used in a super-utility role next season, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports. Spin: Owings proved to be a versatile asset again in 2017, playing shortstop, second base, right field and left field for the Diamondbacks before suffering a season-ending broken finger at the end of July. While he held his own at the plate (.268/.299/.442 with 12 homers and 12 stolen bases), his poor defense and below-average on-base skills aren't necessarily desirable traits in an everyday starter, prompting Arizona to shift him to a utility role. Owings was forced to undergo a second surgery on his broken finger in November, leaving his status for Opening Day up in the air.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 15:01:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=3310http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=3310#82154.2.2017.184.476098Carlos Rodon of the Chicago White Sox: General manager Rick Hahn said Rodon (shoulder) remains without a timetable for his return, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports. Spin: Hahn noted he's received encouraging reports regarding Rodon's rehab, though he wouldn't speculate on the southpaw's status for Opening Day. Things should clear up closer to spring training. The White Sox figure to play it safe with Rodon, as the 25-year-old made just 12 starts last season due to injuries. He posted a 4.15 ERA but flashed top-of-the-rotation stuff, fanning 76 batters in 69.1 innings.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:41:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=6189http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=6189#82154.2.2017.184.476097Robinson Cano of the Seattle Mariners: Manager Scott Servais said Cano was bothered by a lower body issue for the second half of 2017, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. Spin: This is the second consecutive year Cano has been hindered by lower body issues, though the issues have primarily limited him in the field and on the bases rather than at the plate, according to Shannon Drayer of 710 ESPN Seattle. The veteran second baseman, who still hit .280/.338/.453 with 23 homers last season, is expected to be fully healthy heading into 2018.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:36:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=1139http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=1139#82154.2.2017.184.476096Trevor May of the Minnesota Twins: General manager Thad Levine said the Twins plan to stretch May (elbow) out as a starter, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. Spin: May missed all of 2017 after undergoing Tommy John surgery in March, though he resumed throwing in August and has progressed to making up to 75 throws from around 105 feet. While May isn't expected to be ready for the start of the season, the Twins are hoping he'll be ready to rejoin their rotation in mid-May.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:26:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=3736http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=3736#82154.2.2017.184.476095Jake Brigham of the Atlanta Braves: Brigham signed a one-year, $500,000 contract to play for the Nexen Heroes in South Korea, the Yonhap news agency reports. Spin: Brigham joined the Heroes after he was released by the Tigers last summer. He went 10-6 with a 4.38 ERA in 24 starts. It's possible he could return to MLB if he becomes a star in South Korea, but the odds are low since he'll be 30 years old next season.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:26:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=3674http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=3674#82154.2.2017.184.476094Josh Lindblom of the Pittsburgh Pirates: Lindbloom signed a one-year, $1.45 million contract to play for the Doosan Bears in South Korea, the Korea Herald reports. Spin: Lindbloom returned to the U.S. last season to play for the Pirates after playing three seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization. However, he was released in July after posting a 7.84 ERA in 10.1 innings and moved back to South Korea to play for the Lotte Giants. It sounds like he'll finish his career in South Korea.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:21:57 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=2973http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=2973#82154.2.2017.184.476093Miguel Sano of the Minnesota Twins: Sano (shin) is continuing his rehab in Florida, Mike Berardino of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. Spin: Sano is about four weeks into his initial eight-week recovery timeframe, but he's apparently doing well. He's expected to continue ramping up his activity before heading to the Dominican Republic to work with Fernando Tatis. Barring any setbacks, Sano should be back to full health well ahead of spring training.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:16:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=3733http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=3733#82154.2.2017.184.476092Corey Seager of the Los Angeles Dodgers: General manager Farhan Zaidi said Seager will not require offseason elbow surgery, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports. Spin: Seager dealt with a right elbow issue for the final two months of the 2017 season, with offseason surgery being floated around as a possibility. He's apparently doing better after taking a couple of months off, however, and is expected to continue resting in the offseason before reporting to spring training. The 23-year-old finished the season with a .295/.375/.479 triple-slash and 22 homers in 145 games despite also dealing with ankle and back injuries. A healthy Seager should be poised for another big season.]]>Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:11:58 PSTPlayer Newshttp://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?campaign=rss&source=GamesLeagueFeed&playerId=5187http://games.espn.com/flb/resources/playernews?playerId=5187#82154.2.2017.184.476091